We all need something to do to keep ourselves busy in retirement. After decades of having a job to go to every work day, it is easy to go stir crazy if you don't have hobbies to do in your retirement. In some cases, they may be a continuation of what you've already been doing. One characteristic of most retirees is that they are not as young anymore, so ideal hobbies would be those that give you some exercise without being overly strenuous.
Take Up Bike Riding
When you were younger, you may have taken up running as an exercise, and it certainly is a good one with tremendous cardiovascular benefits. It does tend to be tough on the joints, however, and may not be optimal for an older person. A good alternative would be to take up riding a bike. Bike riding is a hobby that many people may have when they are young as well. Unlike running, it translates better into our retirement years. Because riding does not require as rigorous a fitness level as certain other exercises, it is also one that you will be more likely to be able to share with a less than physically fit spouse or friend.
Having a Garden to Work On Can Help You Stay Fit
Starting a garden is probably one of the most traditional hobbies among retirees and for good reason. It certainly does not require too much exertion, but it does require a lot of gripping, lifting, kneeling and squatting. Because of this, it is an excellent way of stretching and exercising your body while also beautifying your home if you plant flowers or bushes in your yard. It only requires a few simple tools and a visit to a nursery for seeds and plants. You will have a tremendous return in healthy work and the feeling of accomplishment.
Start Swimming at the Local Gym or Community Center
Swimming is a hobby that will get or keep you fit, and it is something that almost anyone can do at their current fitness level. According to an article on webmd.com, swimming uses all the major muscle groups. Because water provides 12 times the resistance of air, it is great for strengthening those muscle groups. Swimming is a great family activity because people of all ages and fitness levels can do it. If you don’t know how to swim or have grandkids who don't know how to swim as well, there are plenty of places that offer swimming lessons, such as Swim Jim who offers swim lessons in NYC. Wherever you go, try to find a place that has a low student to instructor ratio and a fun environment so that you and your grandkids will get the attention they need and have fun while learning. The option of added one-on-one attention or private classes may help as well. Once everyone knows how to swim, this is a fun hobby for the whole family.
Hiking and Nature Walks Can Keep You Fit While Indulging a Love of Nature
Getting out and hiking or walking among nature is good for your health and can lift your spirits. Even if you are in a city, you can usually find trails and parks for getting immersed in greenery. Even a city as urbanized as New York has Central Park. Studies have shown that walking while immersed in natural surrounds is healthy for our mood and stress reduction as well as the physical exercise of the walking. Find your local trails and parks, and get out among the greenery to recharge your mental and physical health.
Yoga and Tai Chi Will Help You Stay Fit Without Overexertion
These two hobbies provide a lot of overlapping benefits for keeping fit in your retirement. Yoga improves your flexibility, builds strength and improves your posture while Tai Chi leads to improved balance and increased mental well-being. They are both best done in a group setting, so you are feeling a communal sense of belonging in addition to all the other benefits.
You have lived a lifetime in order to have the best idea of what types of things you like to do. Find something you enjoy that gets you moving, and it will make you healthier and keep you busy in your retirement. Try to find at least two activities, one of which is done indoors and the other outdoors. This will give you something to do no matter the weather.
Bio: Rachelle Wilber is a freelance writer living in the San Diego, California area. She graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor's Degree in Journalism and Media Studies. She tries to find an interest in all topics and themes, which prompts her writing. When she isn't on her porch writing in the sun, you can find her shopping, at the beach, or at the gym. Follow her on twitter: @RachelleWilber